in the waning days of this 112th congress, we ask your blessing, o lord, upon the members of this people's house and most importantly upon the leadership. it's on their shoulders the most important negotiations of our time have been placed. they have been entrusted by their fellow americans by the awesome privilege of sustaining the great experiment of democratic self-government. give them wisdom, grace, insight and courage to forge an agreement that allows us all to move forward toward an encouraging future. may all that is done this day be for your greater honor and glory. amen. the speaker: the chair has examined the journal of the last day's proceedings and announces to the house his approval thereof. pursuant to clause 1 of rule 1 the journal stands approved. the pledge of allegiance today will be led by the gentleman from arkansas, mr. womb -- womack. mr. womack: i pledge allegiance to the flag of the united states of america and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. the speaker: the chair will entertain up to five r